Cure More, Spend Less

Published: March 2, 2008, New York Times (Op-Ed)

THE presidential candidates are not focusing enough on how government can be administered more efficiently and successfully, especially in the health care arena. The Republicans held four debates before even one question was asked about health care. Our party has definite positions on this issue, but it would seem that the news media have assumed Republicans are not focused on it. Nor is anyone asking how the Republicans would make Medicare and Medicaid more efficient.

We should also focus on problems with the Food and Drug Administration, not only in food safety but in many other areas as well. How would Republicans make this agency more efficient and effective?

The candidates should address the importance of setting goals for finding cures for breast cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer. Just as we have marshaled forces to put a man on the moon and to stop the growth of communism in the world, we should make it a priority to find cures for these devastating diseases.

Tommy G. Thompson is a former Republican governor of Wisconsin and secretary of health and human services.